Category: Japan

Early on in the modern era, the Japanese government began a program to protect its natural treasures. There is no better example of Japan’s commitment to saving their natural monuments than the incredible story of Ogawachi no sugi, or Ogawa’s Cedar.

It’s no small wonder that trees have such an important role in Japanese culture. Even in the heavily industrialized country that it’s become, forests still cover more than two thirds of Japan’s land area. Early on in the modern era, the Japanese government began a program to protect its natural treasures. There is no better example of Japan’s commitment to saving their natural monuments than the incredible story of Ogawachi no sugi, or Ogawa’s Cedar. Continue reading “Ogawa’s Sacred Cedar – A 780 Million Yen Rescue Mission”

Alongside the neon lights and constant hum of Tokyo’s commuter trains, ancient temples and shrines provide a serene reminder of the past. Near the Zenpuku-ji Buddhist temple in the Azabu Ward, one ginkgo tree links to a time before time.

Japan is a country in a careful balance between the new and the old. Nowhere is this more evident than the modern metropolis of Tokyo. Alongside the neon lights and constant hum of commuter trains, ancient temples and shrines provide a serene reminder of the past. Near the Zenpuku-ji Buddhist temple in the Azabu Ward, one ginkgo tree links to a time before time. Read full story